Roger Cook says conflicts in Europe and the Middle East are a reminder of how “lucky we are” to live in Australia, urging West Australians to attend Anzac Day services right around the State.
Ahead of his first Anzac Day as Premier, Mr Cook said the iconic event provided an opportunity for people to “reflect on the courage, the resilience and the heroism of those who have given everything for our nation”.
His comments come as RSLWA revealed a new Anzac Day event for Perth — a “family and mateship day” at Langley Park — following the traditional march and dawn services.
“I urge every Western Australian to head along to their local dawn service this Anzac Day and stand shoulder-to-shoulder in honour of our serving men and women,” Mr Cook said.
“Anzac Day is such an important day for every Australian to reflect on the courage, the resilience and the heroism of those who have given everything for our nation.
“The conflicts raging in Europe and the Middle East right now serve as a reminder to all of us of how lucky we are in Australia to live in a peaceful and prosperous society and of the sacrifices paid by generations before us to bring us to this point.
“It’s also an important opportunity to support the men and women serving in our armed forces, who give so much to protect our nation.”
Across WA, some 100 commemorative services will be held on Thursday.
RSLWA CEO Vince Connelly said the mateship and family event, starting at 10am at Langley Park, gave everyone the opportunity to “come together and reflect on Anzac Day.”
“There will be military displays, food trucks and entertainment for both kids and adults, as well as a licensed area,” he said.
RSLWA president Duncan Anderson said the new event would add to the day’s normal activities.
“Whilst we are retaining the sombre and reflective dawn services and marches around WA, this event will provide a new opportunity for families and the whole community to participate in the Anzac spirit throughout the remainder of the day,” Mr Anderson said.
RSLWA vice president and navy veteran Miquela Riley said that in another first for Anzac Day in WA, female veterans would march under a combined Servicewomen’s banner, commemorating and acknowledging the military service of generations of Australian women in the Navy, army, and air force.
“Many veterans feel uncertain about their role or place on Anzac Day once they leave the ADF,” she said. “And this year, we want to get the message out there to all veterans — you are welcome.
“We feel encouraged by the increase in veterans who participated in last year’s Anzac Day march and we hope to see a further increase in veterans participation this year.”
Mr Connelly said this year also marked 25 years since Australia led the multinational force in support of East Timor.
“We are using this opportunity to ensure we engage with the thousands of veterans who helped our regional neighbour to regain security and establish their nationhood,” Mr Connelly said.